Lessons in business for budding entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs of the future have been getting tips about starting a new business as part of their course.Peter Connor, a director of performance improvement business consultants Connor Newman Ltd, worked with the BTEC National Diploma Business students on business ideas, business plans and investments.Every student came up with a business idea and each will present their businesses to a 'Dragons Den' style panel at the end of their module in May.

Student Jess Horner, 18, from Beverley, said: "I feel that having Peter Connor come into College really helped me to gain a detailed view on how to potentially start up a new business. "Participating in certain activities and group research has enabled me to broaden my ideas and have a lot of confidence in what I would like to achieve in the future."Kate Bardsley, 20, from Bainton, said: "This was an excellent lecture and workshop, and I really learnt a lot about business and what needs to be considered. "I will take on board everything Peter has said and look forward to presenting my business idea."Danny Bullement, 18, from Beverley, said: "I thought Peter's talk was extremely beneficial towards not only my course but also my future career. He seemed a very successful, friendly man and I have learnt a lot from him."

Mr Connor said: "This was a very enjoyable session, with time well spent in developing initial ideas and thoughts for starting a new business. "The student group took a full part in the workshop and I was very pleased with the way they interacted and generated ideas."

The special session was held during the College's "Enjoy and Achieve" fortnight, which has also seen the creation of an entrepreneur club as part of students' enrichment activities. Five themed fortnights are held each year to highlight the five main priorities of the government's Every Child Matters agenda: be healthy; stay safe; enjoy and achieve; make a positive contribution; and achieve economic well-being.For more information about East Riding College courses, visit www.eastridingcollege.ac.uk, where it is possible to download or request a course guide, or call 0845 120 0037.

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Notes to editors

Photographs of the lesson are available. For more information, call Matthew Croshaw, marketing and communications manager, on 01482 306612 or email matthew.croshaw@eastridingcollege.ac.uk